Hey, Fellow Good Dads,
There’s a measure of greatness within each of us. – Inspired by Wilma Rudolph
But let’s be honest—sometimes that greatness feels just out of reach. Life moves fast, responsibilities pile up, and the idea of doing something truly great can feel like a distant fairy tale.
Maybe, our idea of greatness is misplaced? When greatness is envisioned, we often picture the men who dominate headlines—the all-time greats of sports, music, business, or politics. They seem to have their greatness on full display, their legacies cemented in highlight reels and history books. And that can make us wonder: Is my greatness as tangible as theirs?
But here’s what I believe—greatness isn’t about fame. It’s not about a title, a record, or a viral moment. It’s about what you build, what you leave behind, and most importantly, what your children witness in the way you live your life.
Defining Greatness for Yourself
I remember listening to Curtis Martin, the Hall of Fame running back for the New York Jets, during his induction speech. And what he said stunned me. He admitted—right there on one of the biggest days of his career—that he didn’t even love football.
Curtis Martin’s speech is an amazing listen ⬇️
How could one of the greatest running backs of all time not love the game he was so dominant at?
Because for Curtis, football wasn’t his passion. It was his vehicle.
On draft day, after being selected by Bill Parcells to play for the Patriots, Curtis told his family he didn’t really want to play. But someone close to him asked, “Have you ever considered that football could be the vehicle to achieve what you want to do for your community?” That question changed everything.
Curtis realized that his greatness wasn’t about how many yards he ran or touchdowns he scored. His greatness was about giving back—about using his success to uplift his community in Pittsburgh.
That got me thinking: What is my greatness? And just as importantly, how am I modeling it for my children?
Modeling Greatness for Your Kids
Greatness is not just what you do. It’s the values you live by, the choices you make, and the lessons they absorb from watching you.
If we want our kids to grow up understanding greatness, we have to show them that it’s not about chasing recognition, but about discovering what truly matters and using whatever means we have to make the impact you want.
For me, I’ve identified three pillars of my own greatness:
1. My Greatness Is Giving.
I want my kids to see that true success isn’t measured in wealth or status—it’s in what you give to others. That’s why I’m committed to supporting families in my community, finding ways to lift up fathers, and making sure that no good dad feels like he’s in this alone.
How do I model this? I let my kids see me serve. Whether it’s helping another dad navigate a tough situation, volunteering, or simply being present when someone needs a listening ear, I want them to know that greatness starts with generosity.
2. My Greatness Is Connecting.
I can’t do this alone, and neither can you. The most powerful changes happen when the right people come together. That’s why I make it a point to introduce dads to each other, to bring men into spaces where they can learn, grow, and become better.
How do I model this? My kids see me build relationships. They see me collaborate, lean on others, and create opportunities—not just for myself, but for those around me. I want them to understand that greatness isn’t just what you accomplish; it’s also what you help others accomplish.
3. My Greatness Is Inspiring.
If I can inspire one dad to step up in his home, to be a better husband, to show up for his kids, then I’ve done my job. I want my children to see that the impact we have on others is one of the greatest measures of a life well-lived.
How do I model this? By showing up consistently. I write. I speak. I create spaces where men can have real conversations. I share the lessons I’ve learned—not because I have all the answers, but because I believe iron sharpens iron.
What Is Your Greatness?
Maybe your greatness is teaching. Maybe it’s leadership. Maybe it’s coaching your kid’s basketball team, being a role model at work, or simply being the steady, loving presence your family can always count on.
Whatever it is, don’t let it stay locked inside as an idea. Find your vehicle. Just like Curtis Martin used football, just like I’m using the Good Dads Club—what will you use to carry your greatness into the world?
As you reflect today, ask yourself:
- What do I want to be remembered for?
- What values am I passing on to my kids—not just in words, but in action?
- What vehicle will I use to unlock my greatness?
And once you have an answer, live it out loud—because one day, your kids will tell the story of your greatness.
🍻 Cheers to unlocking your greatness and showing your kids what it looks like.
